Definitions and Concept of Functional Literacy; An Analysis and Interpretation. Research Studies, 2.

Literacy House, Lucknow (India).

This study sought to outline the general consensus of sociologists, educators, planners, administrators, and social reformers in India as to the nature of adult literacy; to examine drawbacks (if any) in their concepts; and to analyze and harmonize different viewpoints on functional literacy. Differing concepts in the field at large were traced mainly to different goals -- economic development, vocational training, continuing education, productivity and social participation. A dichotomy was also noted between literacy as a medium for communicating ideas, and literacy as both a medium and an idea. Reactions of 40 respondents were obtained concerning a definition put forth by UNESCO. The respondents were sharply divided as to the scope of literacy skills and the subject content of literacy education. Moreover, their views seemed to reflect theory (especially from child psychology) rather than practical experience. A new definition based on the aim of making people more amenable to change was proposed and discussed. (Included are a bibliography and excerpts of respondents' remarks.) (ly)